Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Private Day Trip Onsen

Exploring the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Private Day Trip with Onsen

Planning a winter trip to Hokkaido? If you’re intrigued by icy landscapes and want a taste of authentic Japanese hot spring culture, this private day trip from Sapporo to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a fantastic pick. While not overly long, it packs a lot of memorable moments into an 8-hour window, making it ideal for travelers who want a mix of scenic beauty, culture, and relaxation.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see beautifully illuminated ice sculptures glow with the famous “Shikotsu Lake Blue.” Second, the opportunity to soak in a thermal onsen right by the serene lake, warming up after exploring icy art. Third, the flexibility to enjoy a hot meal or snacks, plus the chance to catch a fireworks display on weekends or holidays.

That said, keep in mind that winter roads can be slippery, and the tour involves a fair amount of walking and exposure to cold weather. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments. If you love winter landscapes, scenic photography, and relaxing in hot springs, this experience offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort.

This trip suits travelers seeking a comprehensive winter experience—from striking ice art to cultural sights—and those who appreciate personalized attention in a private group setting. Let’s explore what this day has in store in more detail.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible schedule with options for fireworks and extra scenic stops
• Authentic experience with illuminated ice sculptures and onsen soak
• Comfortable private transportation for a stress-free day
• Suitable for photographers who want to capture the dreamy ice art
• Includes cultural elements like local food stalls and creative stalls
• Not ideal for mobility-impaired travelers due to walking and weather conditions

Introduction to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Day Trip

We love how this tour combines the visual magic of ice sculptures with the warmth of a Japanese onsen. Starting from Sapporo, you’ll be whisked away in a private vehicle, making for an easy and comfortable journey. The ride itself, lasting about 1 hour and 15 minutes, gives you a scenic preview of Hokkaido’s winter wonderland.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Shikotsu Lake Ice Festival, held from late January to late February. As someone who appreciates the charm of illuminated art, we’re told the sculptures glow with the lake’s famous “Shikotsu Lake Blue,” creating a dreamy backdrop for photos. The festival’s natural sculptures formed by spraying lake water onto frames form intricate shapes, making each piece unique and ephemeral—a true testament to nature’s artistry.

You’ll have ample time to explore both during the day and at night, with the option to see fireworks if visiting on weekends or holidays. The tour’s balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and culture makes it a well-rounded winter adventure.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Departure from Sapporo & Arrival at Shikotsu Lake Onsen

At around 11:00, your private driver will pick you up from your downtown hotel. Winter roads can be slippery, so confirm safe driving arrangements in advance—many drivers are experienced in snowy conditions. The drive offers a scenic glimpse of Hokkaido’s wintry landscapes, setting the mood for the day.

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Exploring the Ice Festival in Daylight

Arriving around 12:15, you’ll purchase admission tickets (roughly ¥1,000) and step into a world of icy artistry. The daytime viewing is perfect for appreciating the clarity of the sculptures, which are made from highly transparent lake water. You can snap photos of the shimmering blue ice and watch ice sculptures glow in the sunlight, which enhances their dreamy appearance.

This is also your chance to explore the stalls selling grilled scallops and hot drinks, perfect for warming up. Many reviews mention how the ice sculptures’ natural blue hue is even more enchanting in daylight, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Relaxing at a Nearby Onsen

Around 13:30, you’ll head to a nearby Shikotsu Lake onsen hotel for a hot spring soak. Guests note that reserving a day-use hot spring slot in advance is wise, as this is a popular way to warm up and relax after outdoor sightseeing. The indoor onsen provides a cozy reprieve, with some reviews mentioning the tranquil lake views from the hot spring areas—perfect for unwinding and reflecting on the icy scenes outside.

In-Depth Exploration & Scenic Walks

From 14:30, you’ll have the chance to re-enter the festival for closer looks at the sculptures and browse nearby creative stalls. The lakeside platform offers a beautiful winter vista, with snow-covered trees framing the shimmering ice sculptures. This time is ideal for capturing detailed photos or simply soaking in the tranquil scenery.

Nighttime Illumination & Fireworks

Starting around 16:30, the sculptures are illuminated with colored lights, transforming the festival into a magical fairytale scene. Those who’ve seen it mention how the glow enhances the sculptures’ ethereal quality. If visiting on a weekend or holiday, you’ll also catch a limited fireworks display at 18:30—a delightful end to the visual feast.

Return to Sapporo

At 18:30, your private bus will leave the festival area, returning to Sapporo in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Some reviews mention the convenience of asking the driver to make a stop at a local convenience store for supplies on the way back. You’ll arrive around 19:00, with optional opportunities to extend your day by exploring Lake Shikotsu independently if you wish.

What We Love About This Tour

The balance of outdoor and indoor experiences is a standout feature. Exploring the sculptures in daylight offers crisp photos, while the night illumination adds a touch of magic. The onsen visit is thoughtfully integrated, providing warmth after the chilly outdoor walks—perfect for resetting both body and mind.

Flexibility in activities—from enjoying food stalls, browsing creative vendors, or simply soaking in the scenery—makes the day feel unhurried. Plus, the private group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace, especially helpful in winter conditions.

The cultural touchpoints like local food and creative stalls offer a taste of regional craft and cuisine, adding depth to the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The fireworks display (on weekends or holidays) is a special bonus, providing a festive, memorable finale under the night sky.

Practical Considerations

While many rave about the visual beauty, it’s important to be prepared for winter conditions. Warm clothing, gloves, hats, and snow gear are essential. The tour’s timing means you’ll spend several hours outdoors, so layering is key. Luggage or large bags are not permitted, so pack light and bring only the essentials—camera, cash, snacks, and warm gear.

The cost of approximately ¥10,000 per person is quite reasonable given the included private transport, entrance fees, and onsen experience. Reviewers note the good value for the quality and uniqueness of the sights.

This tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, as walking on snow and ice can be challenging. However, the private vehicle and indoor hot spring help make the day comfortable for those who can manage the outdoor elements.

Final Thoughts

This Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival private day trip offers a well-rounded winter experience, perfect for travelers wanting a blend of art, nature, and relaxation. The stunning ice sculptures, especially when lit up at night, are a true highlight—an Instagram-worthy scene that’s hard to forget. The onsen visit provides a soothing counterpoint to the chilly outdoor activities, making the day both invigorating and restorative.

If you’re visiting Hokkaido during winter and crave a taste of authentic icy artistry combined with local hot springs, this tour delivers. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy scenic photography, cultural touches, and a touch of winter magic—all in a private, stress-free setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and flexible, the outdoor activities and cold weather might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Do I need to reserve the hot spring in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve the hotel’s day-use hot spring slot ahead of time to secure your preferred time.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, a hat, gloves, snow gear, camera, cash, snacks, and a scarf are advised.

Can I stay longer at the festival?
The tour has a set schedule, but you can ask the driver if you wish to extend your stay, especially if you want to enjoy the fireworks or take more photos.

Is there any free time at Lake Shikotsu?
Yes, after the main sightseeing, you have time to explore the festival stalls, walk along the lake, or revisit sculptures.

What if I want to see more than just the ice sculptures?
On non-festival days, the tour offers alternative activities like lake cruises and snowmobiling, plus a visit to the local market.

How long is the drive back to Sapporo?
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with stops possible along the way.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to outdoor walking conditions.

What is the cost per person?
The tour is around ¥10,000, offering good value considering the private transport, festival entry, and onsen experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

This tour blends the visual magic of winter with the calming warmth of a Japanese onsen, making it a truly memorable way to experience Hokkaido’s icy landscapes. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, cultural experiences, and relaxing moments—ideally in a private group setting for maximum comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: